Columbia Point
617-929-4500
www.cs.umb.edu/jfklibrary/main.html
What's
New?
If you are over 40, chances are
you have some memory of all that is displayed here at the JFK
Library. If you’re younger, here’s a chance to discover just
why this nation can’t stop talking about John Fitzgerald
Kennedy. This self-guided tour shows it all, from Kennedy’s
youth through his assassination and beyond.
The building itself, designed by
architect I. M. Pei, is a structure to note. Inside, let the
floor plan guide you to the introductory biographical film.
After that, descend to the exhibits and take a walk through
American history. The layout of the exhibits carries visitors
forward from the 1960 Convention where Kennedy was nominated to
run for President on the Democratic ticket, through to the
reflections on his legacy. It’s chilling to experience again
the sights and sounds of 1960. It’s sobering to pass through
the darkened corridor where videos of the reports of his
assassination replay over and over again.
In between, history is made as
Kennedy makes his famous inaugural speech, sets this nation
firmly in the center of the Cuban Missile crisis (there’s
another, optional film here), founds the Peace Corps and the
Space Program, and struggles alongside brother Robert (who was
his Attorney General) to move America closer to equal rights. A
replica of "Bobby’s" office displays key documents
from the Civil Rights Movement.
The rest of the Kennedy family is
not left out. JFK’s origins, siblings, parents and roots to
Ireland are all found here. His marriage to Jacqueline, and her
accomplishments as First Lady are as much a part of the story as
anything else. The work of his two brothers, Robert and Edward,
are reflected as well. The Kennedy Library Foundation presents a
Profile in Courage Award every year to an individual who
demonstrates political courage as defined by Kennedy’s book of
the same name. The award is in the glass pavilion at the exit.
For many, this will not be an
easy visit. Kennedy’s presidency was an emotional time for
this country; Americans were filled with excitement and hope as
JFK laid out plans for the future. If you’re at all inclined
to tears, bring tissues. But don’t avoid a visit here – it’s
renewing for many.
Kennedy’s presidential,
congressional, and personal papers reside in the Kennedy Library’s
Archives. Although the Archives are not open to the public,
researchers do have access. Interestingly, Ernest Hemingway’s
manuscripts and correspondence belong to the Library, as well.
In addition, the Library offers educational and community
programs. The website is a good place to begin political
research. There is computer access on the tour, take the time to
explore.
The Library is on a peninsula
that juts out into Boston Harbor. Take advantage of
views while you visit.
Hours:
Daily: 9 – 5
Closed Thanksgiving,
Christmas, New Year’s Day
Admission:
Adults: $8.00
Seniors: $6.00
Students with I.D.: $6.00
Ages 13 - 17: $4.00
Age 12 and under: Free
